I happen to believe, as you know, that the disability system needs to be, for the lack of a better word, updated to reflect where we are and the new ways that we have got to think in the future.

I was serious months ago when I suggested to the service organizations, let's start with a blank sheet of paper.

For the men and women who have served and sacrificed for our Nation, they deserve a system that meets their needs without hassles or delays.

I think it is absolutely essential that you tell us whether the next step are congressional steps, the next steps are VA steps, the next step is to stimulate the national debate.

If at the end of the day we determine we have a system that cannot do that, then we have to decide whether we change the system to accommodate it, or, in fact, we may find that we can do this and incorporate it in the same system.

But if it could uphold that legal right, then we should do everything to avoid these types of delays?

Do I have your assurance that you will take their concerns seriously and will ensure that the VA's fiduciary policies are not only looking out for the interest of the injured veterans but also are affording the respect, trust and dignity…

Each time appellants submit new evidence, VA must review and summarize the case for the appellant again, adding to the time it takes to resolve the appeal.

I think that they were very specific as it related to the need to move to a system that compensated for the loss of quality-of-life.

I might note that this is not a cheap investment.

I appreciate that, and for the purpose of my colleagues to understand that there is a learning curve that these people have to go through.

I think a process that takes that long is indefensible. Our veterans and their families deserve better.

This commission should start with a blank piece of paper to design this system with no preconceived notions.

I chuckled, Mr. Koch, at the answer because I sat here thinking, you know, MasterCard and Visa can find everybody in America.

Admiral, I appreciate your candid answer and, again, thank all three of you for your service to the veterans.

But, in fact, this new grant program would be inconsistent with what I think the original intent was of the legislation.

There would be a great inconsistency in us offering preservation or maintenance dollars to some and not all.

There was a tremendous lack of confidence as to whether the Federal Government would do anything other than stand by and watch these historic landmarks disintegrate and deteriorate.